Mindfulness and the unseen: understanding the impact of dark patterns in mindfulness applications
International Conference on Engineering Design, cilt.5, ss.2431-2440, 2025 (Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 5
- Basım Tarihi: 2025
- Doi Numarası: 10.1017/pds.2025.10257
- Dergi Adı: International Conference on Engineering Design
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Scopus
- Sayfa Sayıları: ss.2431-2440
- Orta Doğu Teknik Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
The rise of mindfulness apps has integrated these tools into daily life, but concerns arise about preserving traditional practices and the ethical use of manipulative dark patterns that undermine user autonomy. This study examines the impact of dark patterns on user perceptions, engagement, and trust in mindfulness apps using expert reviews, surveys, journaling, and interviews. Three apps—Calm, Headspace, and Insight Timer—were analyzed for dark patterns, with participants documenting their experiences and perceptions. The findings underscore the need for ethical design practices to enhance trust and informed decision-making while highlighting the influence of dark patterns on user behavior and experience.